"This demonstrates that Russia has met all its obligations [under the construction contract] despite the adverse political situation [surrounding the project]," Kiriyenko said.

The first unit at Bushehr has capacity to generate 1,000 megawatts. It was connected to the grid last week.

The Bushehr power plant will initially work at 40% capacity under the supervision of Russian experts. Russian officials said on Monday the plant could reach 100% of its generating capacity by the end of 2011.